Havant Borough Council’s successful vacant shop scheme is to be extended to Havant town centre to increase footfall in the area.
Following the introduction of the scheme in Waterlooville and Leigh Park, Councillor Gillian Harris, Cabinet Lead for Regeneration and Communities, announced the extension at last night's Cabinet meeting.
Helping to tackle the shop vacancy rates in Havant town centre, Havant Borough Council will create a long-term solution by extending the vacant shop grant scheme.
Grants will be available to new and expanding businesses and will range from £1,000 to £50,000 to support refurbishment costs, helping to bring empty units in the town centre back into use.
Councillor Harris said: “Supporting businesses to get established is key to revitalising town centres and so I am very pleased we are able to do this in Havant. Grants like these can really make the difference in helping to overcome the upfront costs of setting up, so that businesses can focus on creating vibrant spaces for people to meet, shop and enjoy themselves.
"We welcome expressions of interest from all types of businesses — including retail, leisure, cultural, entertainment, and health providers."
Expressions of interest will be open from Monday 19 January. For more details and guidance, please go to our website.
The council previously awarded five vacant units grants in Waterlooville to the following businesses:
- Babyccinos – play café for children
- Barbers Beauty Paws - dog grooming
- The Exchange – all-day venue for entertainment
- Mini Town – role-play café for children
- Revive Wellness – for holistic therapy.
The Leigh Park scheme also awarded five grants to:
- Viking Prints - printing company
- The Recovery Hub - juice bar and café
- Just Sweetz and Treatz - sweet and dessert shop
- PFM Gym – fitness centre
- Citizens Advice – community advice and support organisation.